Who Is At Fault for Head-On and Rear-End Collisions?

 Posted on February 05, 2025 in Car Accidents

On January 30th, I-74 near Gilson, IL was the scene of a collision that claimed two lives and critically injured another victim. One vehicle was traveling in the wrong direction in the eastbound lanes when it struck another vehicle head-on. While traveling the wrong way is somewhat uncommon, head-on collisions are responsible for around 14 percent of annual U.S. traffic fatalities. Rear-end collisions are the most common type of crash but cause far fewer fatalities and serious injuries.

What causes rear-end and head-on collisions? Who is at fault? If you are injured in a motor vehicle accident, your dedicated Springfield, IL personal injury lawyer will investigate your crash, determine fault, establish liability, and help you pursue maximum compensation.

Why Do Head-On Collisions Happen?

Negligent driver error causes approximately 94 percent of all traffic accidents. Head-on collisions, although one of the most rare types of crashes, often cause substantial injuries and property damage because the impact forces of both vehicles combine. Common causes of head-on collisions include:

• Distracted driving

• Driving under the influence

• Drivers who pull out of their lanes to pass another vehicle without checking oncoming traffic

• Running red lights

• Being unfamiliar with one-way streets

When negligence is a factor, you may have grounds to pursue compensation.

What Causes Rear-End Collisions?

Many rear-end crashes happen when the front vehicle is traveling slowly or stops. Tailgating and distracted driving often combine to cause low-speed impacts. Drowsiness or driving under the influence can also make a rear-end accident likely. Many rear-end crashes can also cause chain reactions that lead to multiple-vehicle crashes.

Who Is At Fault in Rear-End and Head-On Crashes?

In head-on collisions, the at-fault driver is usually the one who is traveling where he or she is not supposed to be; for instance, going the wrong way in a traffic lane or improper passing likely indicates fault. The rear driver is typically found to be at fault in rear-end crashes, but not always.

As with any kind of motor vehicle accident, multiple parties might share liability for head-on and rear-end accidents. Evidence that is gathered in an accident investigation should point to one or more at-fault parties. You do not have to perform an inquiry yourself; your attorney can handle it for you. Then, we will seek the full compensation you are entitled to.

Consult Our Knowledgeable Champaign, IL Car Accident Attorneys

To collect as much compensation as you deserve, you need the help of a determined Decatur, IL personal injury lawyer from Kanoski Bresney. Schedule your no-cost consultation online or by calling 888-826-8682 now.